Downtown Arlington’s Urban Union District Nears Expansion Completion: New Businesses and Boutique Hotel Set to Open Soon

By Office of Communications

Posted on October 31, 2024, October 31, 2024

The much-anticipated expansion of Downtown Arlington’s Urban Union District, led by Texas-based Street Realty, is nearing completion. The project included the construction of five new mixed-use buildings which will host new restaurants, retail, lifestyle shops and a boutique hotel, all while enhancing the District’s already popular destinations such as The Tipsy Oak, Cidercade, Hurtado Barbecue, and Sugar Bee Sweets.

“We are thrilled to take the next step in realizing our vision for the Urban Union District as a walkable, experiential lifestyle destination,” said Ryan Dodson, Co-Founder of Street Realty. “Arlington can look forward to an exciting mix of new offerings along a pedestrian-friendly stretch of Front Street. Our goal is to create a seamless blend of complementary businesses to enhance the experience for visitors and locals alike.”

The Urban Union District expansion aligns with the City of Arlington’s Downtown Master Plan, which established a framework to transform downtown into the ideal place for those seeking to build their individual American Dream. Some strategies within the plan include attracting more people downtown to live, work, socialize and recreate, ensure a robust, resilient economy and develop a critical mass of activity, among others. 

A Walkable Destination 
Slated to open in November 2024, the expansion along Front Street furthers Downtown Arlington’s mission of crafting a pedestrian-friendly environment where visitors can explore local offerings. The area will offer a true "stay-and-play" experience, where people can enjoy a variety of dining, shopping, and entertainment options in one walkable district.

Boutique Hotel Adds a Unique Stay Experience
A key highlight of the expansion is The Rambler Inn, a 23-room boutique hotel with a vintage style. Located above street-level retail, The Rambler Inn will offer luxurious and distinctive accommodations for concertgoers, sports fans, visitors to UT Arlington and others exploring the area. 

 Sutton Frost Cary LLP Joins the District
Sutton Frost Cary LLP, a respected accounting firm with a long-standing history in Arlington, has moved its headquarters to the 15,000-square-foot second floor of the new buildings located at the corner of Front and Mesquite Streets, adjacent to the newly announced Dream Park. The firm’s decision to relocate underscores the appeal of the vibrant and walkable environment being created on Front Street.

 New Businesses Announced
Several exciting new businesses will soon call the Urban Union District home, including: 

• Blue Mint Thai: Family-owned restaurant offering modern Thai and Asian cuisine with a lively patio atmosphere. 
• Breakfast Brothers: A popular breakfast and lunch spot known for its unique twist on traditional favorites, including Fried Catfish & Waffles and Chicken & Red Velvet Waffles. 
• Mama Cuca’s: Serving flavors inspired by Zacatecas, this restaurant has delighted patrons for over a decade and is expanding with a modern interior and spacious patio. 
• Bonchon Korean Fried Chicken: Offering a mix of Korean comfort foods in a cozy setting with patio seating. 
• Goldilinks Jewelry: A whimsical jewelry boutique specializing in handcrafted pieces and permanent jewelry. 
• LacquerBox Nail Studio: A trendy boutique offering a wide variety of manicure options for an elevated self-care experience. 
• Rocketbelly: A space-themed boba tea shop, owned by 12-year-old Olivia Huynh, featuring Texas’ first and only self-serve bubble tea bar. 
• Victory City Cycles: Arlington’s first electric bike rental and sales shop, located in the former Bill’s Trim Shop building. 
• Truth Vinyl: Returning by popular demand, Truth Vinyl will provide live music performances and a wide selection of vinyl records, now with a bar.

"We are incredibly excited to welcome these diverse businesses to Downtown Arlington," said Maggie Campbell, President and CEO of Downtown Arlington Management Corp. “These new offerings will enhance our district’s walkability and bring even more vibrancy to the community.” 

For more information and updates, visit DowntownArlington.org or follow Downtown Arlington on Instagram.